acid reflux day of procedure tips

Overview

Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows back into the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach (the esophagus). This can cause heartburn, a burning feeling in your chest, and other symptoms. A procedure, such as an endoscopy (a test using a thin tube with a camera), may be needed to check your esophagus or treat reflux.

Yes, acid reflux is very common. Many people experience heartburn now and then, and some have it regularly.

Anyone can get acid reflux, but it’s more common in people who are overweight, pregnant, or have a hiatal hernia (when part of the stomach pushes up into the chest).

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Heartburn (a burning feeling in your chest or throat)
• Bitter or sour taste in your mouth
• Burping or belching
• Feeling like food is stuck in your throat

Symptoms in children

• Repeated vomiting or coughing
• Fussiness after eating
• Poor weight gain

Symptoms in older adults

• Chest pain that is not related to the heart
• Difficulty swallowing
• Hoarseness or chronic cough

Causes

Main causes

• A weak muscle at the bottom of the esophagus (the lower esophageal sphincter) that doesn’t close properly
• Hiatal hernia (when the stomach slides up into the chest)
• Certain foods and drinks that relax the muscle, like fatty foods, caffeine, or alcohol

Risk factors

• Being overweight or obese
• Pregnancy
• Smoking
• Eating large meals or lying down right after eating
• Taking certain medications (talk to your doctor about your medicines)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have severe chest pain that feels like a heart attack (call emergency services)
• If you vomit blood or have black stools

Book a routine appointment if:

• If heartburn happens more than twice a week
• If over-the-counter medicines don’t help
• If you have trouble swallowing

Diagnosis

Doctors often diagnose acid reflux based on your symptoms. If symptoms are severe or don’t improve, they may recommend tests to look at your esophagus and stomach.

Tests that may be done

• Endoscopy (a thin tube with a camera is passed down your throat into your stomach)
• pH monitoring (a small tube measures acid levels in your esophagus)
• Barium swallow (you drink a chalky liquid and X-rays show how it moves through your digestive tract)

What to expect at your appointment

If you have an endoscopy, you will be given medication to help you relax. You will not feel pain. The test takes about 15–30 minutes. You will need someone to drive you home afterward.

Treatment

Treatment for acid reflux often starts with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medicines. If that is not enough, your doctor may suggest stronger medicines or, in some cases, surgery.

Self-care at home

• Eat smaller meals and avoid eating within 3 hours of bedtime
• Raise the head of your bed by 6–8 inches
• Avoid foods that trigger your symptoms, such as spicy or fatty foods
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Quit smoking

Medical treatments

Medicines that reduce stomach acid are called acid reducers or proton pump inhibitors. These are available over the counter or in stronger doses by prescription. Always use these as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not take them long-term without medical advice.

When is surgery considered?

If medicines and lifestyle changes do not help enough, a doctor may recommend a procedure to tighten the valve between your stomach and esophagus. This is called fundoplication. It is usually done by laparoscopy (small incisions). Talk to your surgeon about what to expect.

Living with this condition

Many people with acid reflux manage it well with small changes. Keep a diary of what you eat and when symptoms happen. This can help you find triggers.

Lifestyle tips

• Eat slowly and chew your food well
• Avoid tight clothing around your waist
• Don’t exercise right after a meal
• Sleep with your head elevated

Diet and exercise

Aim for a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid large, heavy meals. Gentle exercise like walking can help with digestion and weight control.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with chronic reflux can be stressful. It may affect your sleep or social life. It is normal to feel frustrated. Talk to your doctor if you feel anxious or down about your symptoms.

Prevention

You can reduce your chance of getting acid reflux by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding foods that trigger you, and not eating before bed. But some causes like a weak esophageal muscle cannot always be prevented.

Complications

If left untreated

• Esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus)
• Stricture (narrowing of the esophagus that makes swallowing hard)
• Barrett’s esophagus (changes in the lining that can raise the risk of esophageal cancer)

Long-term outlook

With proper care, most people with acid reflux can manage their symptoms well. Serious complications are rare, especially if you see a doctor early. Treatments are very effective.

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